The people of Israel cried out, “We want a king!” They believed a king would fix everything. But their desire to be like everyone else led them to reject God as their true King. This moment shifted Israel from the era of the Judges into the era of the United Kingdom—a 130-year stretch that became Israel’s golden age under Samuel, Saul, David, and Solomon. Yet even in their splendor, every earthly king failed to deliver what only God could.

Samuel: Listen to God, Speak His Truth
Samuel’s story began with a barren mother’s prayer and a miracle birth. As a boy, he learned to hear God’s voice and courageously speak His word. Samuel bridged the chaos of the Judges to the rise of the monarchy, teaching that one voice tuned to God can change the direction of a nation.

Saul: To Obey Is Better Than Sacrifice
Saul looked the part—tall, strong, and popular—but his success led to self-reliance. He offered sacrifices he wasn’t meant to, disobeyed God’s commands, and tried to cover his failures with ritual instead of repentance. Samuel’s words still echo today: “To obey is better than sacrifice.” God doesn’t want our performance; He wants our hearts.

David: God Looks at the Heart
David began as a shepherd boy with a heart fully devoted to God. He trusted the Lord against Goliath, led with courage, and sought God even while hiding in caves. Yet his story also reminds us how sin and pride can undo even the strongest leader. Through it all, God’s covenant promise remained—one of David’s descendants would rule forever.

Solomon: Pursue Wisdom
Solomon asked for wisdom and received wealth, power, and peace. He built the temple where God’s glory visibly descended in fire. Yet even Solomon drifted. His heart was divided by wealth, women, and worldly pursuits. His story warns that wisdom without worship will always wander.

The Greater King
Every king of Israel—no matter how strong, wise, or faithful—eventually failed. The message of the United Kingdom is clear: This is not the king you are yearning for.

In every rise and fall of Israel’s kings, God was preparing the world for a perfect King—the one who would never fail, never forget, and never forsake His people. His name is Jesus.

Is there a part of your life where you’ve been asking for a “king” other than God? Today, invite Jesus to rule there. He is the only King worth trusting.

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Message recap adapted from October 19, 2025, message by Minister Mark Ashton

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Message Notes & Slides

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